Seoul: Gyeongbokgung & Insa-dong Gastroventure Day Tour

Seoul , South Korea

Seoul: Gyeongbokgung & Insa-dong Gastroventure Day Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

-Overview-

Step back in time to the Joseon Dynasty and experience Korea’s royal history and vibrant culinary culture on this immersive day tour.

Our tour not only offers excellent experiences but also focuses on storytelling. With engaging, entertaining, and memorable narratives, we’re confident that your time with us will be more satisfying than any other tour.

-Highlights-

*Witness the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony at Gyeongbokgung Palace
*Explore the grand halls and pavilions of the Joseon Dynasty
*Learn about the lives of court ladies, kings, and queens
*Discover the charm of Insadong’s art and antiques market
*Enjoy a full-course hanjeongsik meal (Korean traditional feast)
*Experience kimchi-making and taste traditional Korean tea
*Tour is guaranteed with a minimum of 2 participants.

Available options

Seoul: Gyeongbokgung & Insa-dong Gastroventure Day Tour

What's included

Kimchi-making experience

Traditional hanjeongsik lunch

Officially certified tour guide by government

Tasting Korea traditional tea

Traveler's insuarance

Entrance fee to Gyeongbokgung Palace

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore Korea’s most famous royal palace and witness the grandeur of the Joseon Dynasty.

Watch the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony, a reenactment of Joseon-era military traditions.
Walk through the Heungnyemun and Geunjeongjeon Halls, where kings conducted state affairs.
Learn about the symbolism in Korean palace architecture, including guardian statues and intricate patterns.
Discover the lives of palace women, their roles, wages, and daily routines.
Visit Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, a serene lakeside retreat once used by the king.

Stop 2

Delve into Seoul’s cultural hub, where traditional meets contemporary.

Stroll through Insadong’s art alleys, filled with calligraphy shops, antique stores, and craft workshops.
Learn about the historical significance of Insadong, a market that evolved from a center for scholars to a hub for artists.

Stop 3

Traditional Hanjeongsik Lunch
Enjoy a full-course Korean meal with a variety of side dishes.

Discover the origin of hanjeongsik, Korea’s traditional royal and aristocratic meal.
Taste an assortment of Korean banchan (side dishes), grilled fish, soup, and rice.

Stop 4

Kimchi-Making Experience
A hands-on experience where you learn to make Korea’s most famous dish.

Understand the fermentation process and the health benefits of kimchi.
Compare Korean, Chinese, and Japanese kimchi styles.
Participate in a guided workshop and take home your own batch.

Stop 5

Traditional Tea Museum
Experience Korea’s ancient tea culture in a peaceful setting.

Learn the art of Korean tea brewing and its connection to meditation and relaxation.
Sample a variety of Korean teas, such as green tea, persimmon leaf tea, and fermented black tea.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We inform you via email/WhatsApp about meet up place and time, etc…

Please leave your name and contact number(or Messenger such as Wechat and Line) which is available in Korea(We are not responsible for absence of the tour in cases that you do not leave your contact number or leave an wrong number or the one which is not available in Korea. Cancellation, Refund and Changing schedule are not allowed for those cases)

Joining after a tour begins is not allowed for other participants of the group.

Please the estimate of the private tour should require via e-mail.

Recording or filming the tour is not allowed.

Pets are not allowed. (No particular place to look after them)

For your information , if the number of participants are under 4, the tour will be canceled. The cancellation notice will sent by WhatsApp.

Meeting point

In front of the stairs of the National Palace Museum of Korea (Gyeongbokgung Station, Line 3, Exit 5

About Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a dynamic metropolis where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Known for its vibrant street life, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural heritage, Seoul offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.

Top Attractions

Gyeongbokgung Palace

The largest of the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours 3,000 KRW (free for those wearing hanbok)

Bukchon Hanok Village

A traditional Korean village nestled between Gyeongbokgung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a glimpse into traditional Korean life.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some cultural experiences may have fees)

Namsan Seoul Tower

Located atop Namsan Mountain, this iconic tower offers panoramic views of Seoul and is a popular spot for couples to lock love locks.

Viewpoint 2-3 hours 10,000 KRW (observatory), 1,500 KRW (cable car)

Myeongdong

A bustling shopping district known for its street food, fashion, and beauty products, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Shopping Half-day Varies widely, from budget to luxury

Hongdae

A lively and youthful neighborhood near Hongik University, famous for its nightlife, street performances, and trendy cafes.

Entertainment Evening or night Varies widely, from budget to upscale

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kimchi

Fermented spicy cabbage, a staple in Korean cuisine, often served with every meal.

Side dish Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Bibimbap

A mixed rice bowl with vegetables, meat, and gochujang (spicy paste), often served with a fried egg.

Main dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bulgogi

Marinated grilled beef, often served with rice and side dishes.

Main dish Contains meat

Tteokbokki

Spicy stir-fried rice cakes, a popular street food often served with fish cakes and boiled eggs.

Snack Vegetarian (check for seafood in some varieties)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Bukhansan National Park Biking along the Han River Water sports at Seokchon Lake Visiting traditional tea houses Enjoying a jjimjilbang (Korean spa) experience Strolling through scenic gardens and parks Participating in a traditional hanbok photo shoot Attending a traditional Korean performance

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Korean
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas and by younger generations)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Time Zone

Korea Standard Time (KST, GMT+9)

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Seoul is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis
• Be wary of strangers offering help or assistance, as they may be trying to scam you

Getting there

By air

Incheon International Airport • 52 km from city center
Gimpo International Airport • 15 km from city center

By train

Seoul Station, Yongsan Station

By bus

Seoul Express Bus Terminal, Central City Bus Terminal, East Seoul Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It operates from 5:30 AM to 12:00 AM, with frequent trains.

Taxis

Available • Apps: KakaoTaxi, T-money

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jongno Gangnam Hongdae Itaewon Insadong

Day trips

DMZ (Korean Demilitarized Zone)

50 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A unique and fascinating day trip, the DMZ offers a glimpse into the history and current status of the Korean Peninsula, with tours visiting various historical sites and observation points.

Nami Island

56 km from Seoul • Half day to full day

A picturesque island known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and filming locations for popular K-dramas like 'Winter Sonata'.

Suwon

30 km from Seoul • Full day

A historic city known for its well-preserved fortress, traditional markets, and cultural attractions, offering a mix of history, culture, and local cuisine.

Festivals

Seoul International Fireworks Festival • Mid-October (annual) Seoul Lantern Festival • Late November to early December (annual) Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Korean phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Use a T-money card for convenient and discounted public transportation
Try street food and local specialties for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore Seoul's diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more unique and immersive experience